Students Matter.

For O’Brian, there are no two words
more important in this campaign.

Investing in CTE

O’Brian knows firsthand how powerful Career and Technical Education (CTE) can be in shaping students’ futures. As a former CTE student who rose to become the international president of a CTE organization, he’s committed to expanding access to these programs across Orange County. By doubling down on investments in CTE, O’Brian wants every student to have opportunities to discover their passions, develop real-world skills, and graduate ready to thrive in college, careers, or wherever their path leads.

Being Competitive

In today’s competitive job market, students need more than just a diploma — they need tools to stand out. O’Brian supports increasing access to workplace certifications that give graduates a head start in landing high-paying jobs and building sustainable careers. By integrating more certification opportunities into OCPS programs, he believes we can give students the edge they need to succeed after graduation.

O’Brian grew up seeing the impact of great teachers through his mother, a dedicated Orange County High School educator. He knows that teachers are the heart of our schools, and that supporting them is essential to student success. O’Brian’s plan focuses on recruiting the best talent and retaining them by investing in professional development, boosting morale, and making Orange County an exceptional place for educators to build their careers. Because when Orange County becomes the best place to work, it becomes the best place to learn.

Recruit and Retain

Empower to Inspire

There’s a difference between a teacher and an Orange County teacher. The latter inspires students, fosters curiosity, and makes a lasting impact. O’Brian knows that the key to strong schools is inspired, supported teachers. To keep that legacy alive, O’Brian is committed to giving teachers the tools, resources, and professional development opportunities they need to excel. O’Brian will work to create an environment where educators feel valued and supported, not only as employees but as leaders in shaping the future of our students.

Orange County Family Plan

Strong schools are the heart of strong families, and strong families make a stronger Orange County. O’Brian knows that parents and caregivers deserve a School Board that listens to their concerns, works with transparency, and keeps students, not politics, at the center of every decision.

The Orange County Family Plan is about restoring trust and building a true partnership between families, schools, and the community.

  • Listening to Families — fostering open, two-way conversations between parents and the School Board to keep families informed and involved.

  • Keeping Classrooms Free of Political Agendas — so educators can focus on teaching and students can focus on learning.

  • Fiscal Responsibility — being a good steward of taxpayer dollars to strengthen classrooms and support student success.

  • Protecting Parental Rights — ensuring parents and families remain central in decisions that impact their children’s education.

O’Brian believes that by focusing on what unites us, our shared commitment to our children’s success, we can rid our schools of divisive politics and make Orange County a place where every student and every family thrives.